tom cruise strictly business

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Risky Business

A Chicago teenager is looking for fun at home while his parents are away, but the situation quickly gets out of hand. A Chicago teenager is looking for fun at home while his parents are away, but the situation quickly gets out of hand. A Chicago teenager is looking for fun at home while his parents are away, but the situation quickly gets out of hand.

• Paul Brickman
• Rebecca De Mornay
• Joe Pantoliano
• 232 User reviews
• 82 Critic reviews
• 75 Metascore
• 3 nominations

Top cast 55

• Miles Dalby

• Joel's Father

• Joel's Mother

• (as Kevin C. Anderson)

• Business Teacher
• Stan Licata
• Nurse Bolik
• Glenn's Girlfriend
• Derelict on Train
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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Did you know

• Trivia In an effort for Tom Cruise (who was 20 during filming) to look more "teenage" in appearance, the producers put him though an unusual bit of physical training. Cruise worked out seven days a week, in order to lose ten pounds. Once that had been accomplished, he immediately ceased working out and ate extremely fatty foods in order to add a layer of baby fat. This is how he achieved that "fresh-faced" teenage look.
• Goofs In the Princeton interview, Joel states that he wishes to major in business. Princeton has never offered a business major.

[last lines]

Joel Goodson : My name is Joel Goodson. I deal in human fulfillment. I grossed over eight thousand dollars in one night. Time of your life, huh kid?

• Alternate versions CBS edited 2 minutes from this film for its 1985 network television premiere.
• Connections Featured in At the Movies: Movies That Changed the Movies (1984)
• Soundtracks Every Breath You Take Written by Sting (uncredited) Performed by The Police Courtesy of A&M Records

User reviews 232

• Oct 28, 2004
• How long is Risky Business? Powered by Alexa
• August 5, 1983 (United States)
• United States
• Lockere Geschäfte
• Niles East High School - 7700 Lincoln Avenue, Skokie, Illinois, USA
• The Geffen Company
• See more company credits at IMDbPro
• $6,200,000 (estimated)
• $63,541,777
• Aug 7, 1983
• $63,542,350

Technical specs

• Runtime 1 hour 39 minutes
• Dolby Stereo

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Flickering Myth

Geek Culture | Movies, TV, Comic Books & Video Games

Risky Business at 40: Tom Cruise’s Breakout Hit Revisited

August 19, 2023 by Tom Jolliffe

We take a look back at Tom Cruise’s breakout hit Risky Business, which turned 40 this month…

Tom Cruise is probably the last great movie star and still pulling in the big bucks with the latest in his Mission: Impossible franchise, which despite the naysayers, will still likely tip close to two-thirds of a cool billion by the time its theatrical run ends (and would have done more if not for unexpectedly huge returns from Barbenheimer). 40 years ago it all began with a breakout year where Cruise was part of a huge ensemble in Francis Ford Coppola’s The Outsiders , but more importantly his first leading role in Risky Business.  

Some films are truly unique. The coming-of-age teen comedy back in the day was marked by high peaks like Fast Times at Ridgemont High , which among the usual attempts to get laid or get high, incorporated some weightier topics and perfectly captured that crushing hit of adulthood just around the corner. Oh, the joys of responsibility. That film aside the larger output of films was more focused on the anarchic chaos of youth with films like Animal House , Porkys , Revenge of the Nerds and more. The emphasis was very much centred more on youthful exuberance and bawdy and/or physical comedy. 

Describing Risky Business , however, is difficult. A dreamy, almost cerebral coming-of-age film that borders on fantastical with its unlikely scenarios. The lurid aspects seem to avoid any moral questioning given the very nature of the film’s odd style and Cruise’s boyish charm. Had he come across as more cocksure, arrogant or somehow exploitative it wouldn’t have dated as well.

There’s a difference between Cruise’s Joel setting up a brothel to cater to high school seniors looking to boost their experience before college, than if you had the same setup orchestrated by Steve Stifler for example. Not least as Joel kind of gets swept away by an idea given to him by the dazzling call girl Lana (Rebecca De Mornay) who manipulates him into a series of farcical situations (that still feel like the escalating misadventures one might dream of). The fact it’s a strong female character calling the shots and her ballsy colleagues make them feel more empowered than exploited has probably helped Risky Business evade the ‘woke’ microscope. 

Central to the film’s dream-like state, aside from a lot of listless journeys and encounters in the dead of night, is the score from Tangerine Dream. You have dreamy synth atmospherics, sometimes undercut with pulsating sequences. Several tracks, most notably Love on a Real Train have been reused countless times in other shows, movies and video games. That fantastic and evocative score is also perfectly supplemented by a stellar soundtrack and Phil Collins’ In The Air Tonight is a song with depth and almost ominous threat that perfectly fits its sequence.

Risky Business is a really strange odyssey where Joel learns to step back from the pressure put upon him to be a high roller, looking at Princeton or bust (to follow in his father’s footsteps). Though his journey from a sterile family home and affluent upbringing to becoming worldly and enterprising has those lurid aspects it still manages to enrapture to this day. The film’s unique approach to the ‘teen comedy’ feels almost like an approach A24 might attempt now in a modern subversion of tropes. 

At the centre of the film is the undoubted star quality of Tom Cruise, and his gawky lack of assurance, to begin with, seems totally against the unshakable persona he’s since built up as an action star. Of course, he builds assertiveness through the picture here, but it’s still a fascinating starting point. The fact Cruise looked younger than his age, and even his playing age, also imbued his character with a naivety and endearing awkwardness.

Likewise, De Mornay is sensational in this. It’s an early role in her career and she’s almost ethereal. With a degree of stoicism at times she manages to beautifully portray the complexity within. There’s a depth of emotion as we can visibly see her moral quandary. Is Joel just a mark, or is he more? At the heart of her journey is a desire to serve her own needs. Whilst it’s not life or death, it’s a direct need to feel in control and call the shots rather than just be another hooker to a pimp (Joe Pantoliano, who is atypically great). 

The film couldn’t retain such a legacy purely on a dreamy atmosphere, great soundtrack and cast. It needs to have memorable moments to be iconic. Most significant pop culture moments in cinema are built on memorable moments and identifiers. It could be Cruise’s living room dance in his underwear as the bored Joel spends his weekend night of freedom alone, with nothing to do but slide across his floor or hump his couch to the tune of Old Time Rock and Roll. It might be dunking his father’s Porsche into a river or the love scenes. 

Some 40 years on, even if the film had maybe not suggested quite Cruise’s level of superstardom, it’s fair to say many will have predicted his box office golden touch that has carried through each decade he’s been in the business. Cruise’s charisma was recognised by the Golden Globes for this film, where he received a nomination for Best Actor (in a comedy/musical).

Perhaps more surprising is that De Mornay was unable to sustain major leading parts into the 21st century or writer/director Paul Brickman was unable to hit the potential shown here. He was pretty well established by this point anyway, but Risky Business is the standout film in his resume. Personal legacies aside, Risky Business remains a unique experience with a blend of elements very few have attempted since. 

What are your thoughts on Risky Business ? Let us know your thoughts on our channels @FlickeringMyth…

Tom Jolliffe is an award-winning screenwriter and passionate cinephile. He has a number of films out around the world, including When Darkness Falls, Renegades (Lee Majors and Danny Trejo) and War of The Worlds: The Attack (Vincent Regan), with more coming soon including Cinderella’s Revenge (Natasha Henstridge) and The Baby in the Basket (Maryam d’Abo and Paul Barber). Find more info at the best personal site you’ll ever see  here .

About Tom Jolliffe

Tom Jolliffe is an award-winning screenwriter, film journalist and passionate cinephile. He has written a number of feature films including 'Renegades' (Danny Trejo, Lee Majors), 'Cinderella's Revenge' (Natasha Henstridge) and 'War of the Worlds: The Attack' (Vincent Regan). He also wrote and produced the upcoming gothic horror film 'The Baby in the Basket'.

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The cast of ‘risky business,’ then and now.

Just 21 when 'Risky Business' hit theaters, Tom Cruise became a star after the movie's Aug. 5, 1983, release. The iconic scene of him dancing in his pink button-down shirt and underwear to Bob Seger's "Old Time Rock and Roll" still stands as one of his most memorable, in a career filled with numerous iconic scenes. See what the cast has been up to since the movie was first released.

By Ani Mosinyan , Kimberly Nordyke August 3, 2018 8:30am

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Just 21 when Risky Business hit theaters, Tom Cruise became a star after the movie's Aug. 5, 1983, release. The iconic scene of him dancing in his pink button-down shirt and underwear to Bob Seger's "Old Time Rock and Roll" still stands as one of his most memorable, in a career filled with numerous iconic scenes.

Cruise — now 56 — stars as Joel Goodson, a high school senior from a wealthy family who plans for a good time when his parents leave on vacation, but things go awry after he crashes his father's Porsche and turns the family home into a brothel. Oh, and he hooks up with a prostitute (Rebecca De Mornay).

The movie, widely praised by critics, went on to earn $184.8 million at the domestic box office when adjusted for inflation.

Risky Business celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. In honor of that milestone, grab your Ray-Bans, crank up some "Old Time Rock and Roll" and see what the actors have been to up since the movie first hit theaters.

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Hollywood's 100 favorite films, tom cruise as joel goodson.

Now one of the highest paid actors in Hollywood, Cruise made his film debut in 1981, at age 19, with Endless Love and then was part of the ensemble of young actors who starred in The Outsiders two years later, just a few months before Risky Business was released. Three years after Risky Business, Cruise kicked off a string of box office hits with T op Gun, Rain Man, Born on the Fourth of July, Days of Thunder, The Firm, Interview With the Vampire, Jerry Maguire, Magnolia and more. He also stars in the Mission: Impossible film series, with the latest — Mission Impossible — Fallout hitting theaters July 27, 2018. During his career, he has been nominated for three Academy Awards and has won three Golden Globes.

Rebecca de Mornay as Lana

Risky Business marked de Mornay's breakthrough role. She went on to star in Runaway Train, The Trip to Bountiful, Backdraft and The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. More recently, her credits include roles on Netflix's Jessica Jones and HBO's John From Cincinnati.

Bronson Pinchot as Barry

Pinchot played Joel's friend Barry, who encourages him to take his father's Porsche out for a spin. He went on to star in Beverly Hills Cop, First Wives Club and True Romance but might be best known for his role as Balki Bartokomous on ABC's Perfect Strangers from 1986-93.

Joe Pantoliano as Guido

Known for playing corrupt criminals and shady characters, Pantoliano portrays Guido, Lana's pimp, in Risky Business. went on to appear in films like The Goonies, Midnight Run and The Matrix and Memento and recently appeared in the series Sense8. He also won a Primetime Emmy Award for his role in The Sopranos. 

Richard Masur as Rutherford

Masur, who played the man in charge of Princeton admissions in Risky Business , went on to serve two terms as the president of the Screen Actors Guild. He has appeared in more than 80 films and shows and most recently appeared in Orange Is the New Black and Transparent. 

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"Risky Business" director: "Some people like the visibility. I don't"

The reclusive director of the 1983 hit talks to salon about the film, tom cruise, and turning down "forrest gump", by jake malooley.

One of the most iconic '80s teen movies not connected to John Hughes turned 30 in August. "Risky Business," the film that made 21-year-old Tom Cruise a household name, was also a promising directorial debut for Paul Brickman, the Chicago native who also wrote the tale of Joel Goodsen, a sexually repressed North Shore high-schooler, who falls in lust with a trouble-magnet call girl (Rebecca De Mornay) while his parents are on vacation. But as Cruise's star rose, Brickman retreated from Hollywood.

Just 34 when "Risky Business" was released, Brickman directed just one other feature, the 1990 bomb "Men Don't Leave." The alchemy that made the filmmaker's arrival so enduring — elegant direction atypical of coming-of-age films; sparkling adolescent dialogue; the use of Tangerine Dream's propulsive, hypnotic score — makes his lack of output over the last three decades all the more surprising.

Recently, I gave the hermit-like 64-year-old a call at his home office in Santa Barbara. His first question: “How did you get this number?” But it didn’t take long for him to warm up as we discussed his one-hit wonder 30 years after it hit theaters — and the Academy Award–winning scripts he turned down as he steered clear of Hollywood.

What was on your mind as your were writing the screenplay for "Risky Business"?

Well, I headed out to a rented cabin in the West to write it. I wanted to do a film for young people that was very stylized in a way that I hadn't seen before. I wanted to make the film that if I were in high school I would've wanted to see. I was writing it in the time just after Reagan had taken office and everyone wanted to be a little capitalist, get their M.B.A.s and wear power suspenders. I thought, That's all dandy, but life is more complex and darker than that. It's tough out there. Capitalism takes its toll on a lot of people.

Where did the title "Risky Business" come from? I’m glad there’s not a cheesy titular line in the film.

The working title was "White Boys Off the Lake." I think the studio rejected that because it sounded like an off-Broadway play. [ Laughs ] So we started doing word association to come up with a new title.

Were you acutely aware of the crop of low-I.Q. teen movies coming out at the time — "Porky's" and the like?

I don't know if "Risky Business" was a reaction to "Porky's." I don't know if I ever sat through "Porky's." What I was inspired by greatly is Bernardo Bertolucci's "The Conformist." I thought, Why can't you present that as a film for youth and aspire to that kind of style and still have humor in it? That was the test: to meld a darker form of filmmaking with humor. Tone is what I wanted to play with. The Tangerine Dream score was all tone and texture.

Tangerine Dream was an odd but inspired choice for a coming-of-age movie. It added to the film’s dreamlike quality. What sort of direction did you give the band?

Initially we sent some film to Tangerine Dream in Germany and they came back with their first pass, and it was clear they were trying to write music to a typical teen movie. The chord changes were like '50s and '60s teenage rock. I remember going, "Oh, man. Do we start looking for new composers or do we stick with these guys?" That's when we — the music supervisor, producer Jon Avnet and I — got on a plane and went to Berlin. We hung out in Tangerine Dream’s studio for ten days and knocked out the score with them. I've played piano my whole life, so I have some musical background. We were very fortunate because the guys in Tangerine Dream were great collaborators. They had strange working hours. They owned and worked in an old church. We'd start work around dinner time and work through the night every night.

Which seems appropriate because "Risky Business" is very nocturnal.

Yeah, we had a lot of night shoots. One night we were filming the shots around Chicago’s Loop El tracks that were in the opening credit sequence of the city. It was a cold night and I was on a camera platform on a train all night long shooting with a second unit. I remember thinking, What am I doing here? I gotta have some fun. I gave them a series of shots to get and went up to a blues club in Rogers Park, got a drink and listened to this great harmonica player. When I got back downtown, the train was still going around the Loop and I got back on and we finished.

You were born in Chicago and grew up in Highland Park on the city’s North Shore. Did you always imagine your hometown as the ideal location for "Risky Business"?

Chicago is a set up well for "Risky Business," because you have the relative safety of the North Shore and you have the train line connecting to adventure and darker elements in the city. That’s the journey Joel takes. So it was an exploration of things not only geographically, but an exploration of the darker side of himself.

When you were an adolescent, did the city’s darker elements ever pull you in?

I tended to avoid the dangerous aspects of the city. But my friends and I used to go down to Old Town and hang out at Barbara's Bookstore. At the time, Old Town was kind of Chicago's answer to New York's Village. We would bring our guitars down there and play on the sidewalk.

Were you as anxious about your future as Joel is in the film?

I was not. I was fairly confident. Or I just didn't even think about it that much. There was this assumption that we would land on our feet. So maybe it was arrogance. [ Laughs ] My parents were very supportive and enjoyed my endeavors. My dad, Morrie, was a syndicated cartoonist. His most successful strip, "The Small Society," ran in about 350 papers.

You filmed in some favored Chicago movie locations, like Lake Shore Drive and the John Hancock Center, but also some suburban spots that seem to have personal significance.

I shot a lot of scenes in Highland Park, so there are a lot of personal spots. The exterior of Joel’s house is three minutes from the house where I grew up. Shelton's Ravinia Grill, where Joel and his friends talk about their futures, is where I used to hang out after walking home from school in the eighth grade. We'd go there and throw French fries at each other. Part of the car chase sequence with Guido, the killer pimp, goes by the Highland Park Movie Theater where I saw movies as a kid. I remember for the “love on a real train” scene, I was stuck on how to make that work. So John Avnet and I went to an Italian restaurant in Chicago one night that had the worst service I've ever had in my life. We were there for about three and a half hours. And we came up with this concept that the train car would come off the tracks and fly over the Chicago skyline. [ Laughs ] We shot it, but failed to execute it. It came across as pornographic.

As a first-time director, was the film’s mantra “Sometimes you have to say ‘What the fuck’" something that you were thinking about your own career?

Definitely. I had some less-than-positive experiences with other directors in terms of my screenwriting up to that point. I was thinking, I can't go through this again! They're destroying my work! So I either had to take a swing from the batter's box or throw in the towel, because I wasn't getting my work realized in the way I thought it should have been. So there was a what-the-fuck attitude to taking on the work on my own and making the film I wanted to make.

When most people think of "Risky Business," they think of Tom Cruise in his underwear dancing to Bob Seger.

Well, I think there's a universal connection to that scene. People can respond to that sense of freedom for a moment that's so exuberant and so much fun.

But my point is that it’s easy to forget how darkly satirical the film is. Cruise’s living-room dance is a fun few beats in the film, but it’s the deeper themes that have carried the film through time. Some of the film's themes about success seem more relevant today because the world has gotten even more competitive. There's this exaggerated fear of not being able to get into the perfect school, which has become more inflamed. If those themes were really thin, this film would've disappeared into the ether long ago.

What was it like once "Risky" came out and it was a critical and box-office success?

The success of "Risky Business" was strange because I had Hollywood coming at me full throttle. I found it very uncomfortable. I moved out of L.A. immediately. Studio heads sent me wine goblets and food baskets. And people threw material at me right and left, and lined up to meet me. It gets uncomfortable.

You're a bit of a recluse, at least compared to the average filmmaker.

Some people like the visibility. I don't. I'm more from the J.D. Salinger school.

You didn't direct another feature until 1990 with "Men Don’t Leave," which was your last. There was this buzz about you when "Risky Business" came out that you were a new auteur, but you never capitalized on that.

Nope. I don't think I did either. I squandered a really good career. What can I say?

Do you really feel that way?

Looking back, I could've taken advantage of "Risky’"s success to a far greater extent. I could've done more.

Which scripts got thrown your way?

A lot of them: "Rain Man" and "Forrest Gump" and like a hundred others.

The ending of "Risky Business" was not the ending you originally scripted and shot. Geffen Film Company, the studio backing the film, demanded you tack on a less cynical final scene. Did that compromise underscore your feeling that you'd never get to make something in Hollywood that was your own vision?

Looking back, that's probably a component. I fought like a madman to preserve the ending. I got very close to achieving what I wanted and then the football was taken away from me like Charlie Brown and Lucy. I felt the film went out in a weaker form and it really bothered me. But if you wait long enough, good things come: The 30th anniversary came up and the Academy had a screening last month as part of its Oscars Outdoors series, which was great because I had never been able to present the film with my original ending to an audience.

I’m curious what you thought of the rise of John Hughes, another filmmaker from the Chicago area, who made popular movies about suburban adolescents.

I have to ask in response: What was the end of John Hughes's story? He walked away from Hollywood and really shut out the industry, too.

True. He was his own sort of recluse.

See what Hollywood does to you? Man! [ Laughs ]

"Home Alone," which Hughes wrote and produced, seems like "Risky Business" for…

For children! Yeah. And "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" seemed to have a lot of references to "Risky Business," too: the North Shore kid exploring the city, the trashed father's car.

How did you feel really seeing Cruise get super famous after "Risky Business." He’s exhibited some strange behavior through the years.

Tom, Rebecca De Mornay and I went out to dinner one night right before the film came out, and I told them, "Your lives are going to change radically now. I hope it's what you want.” Tom was like a younger brother on the set. We were very close. I was concerned for his overall welfare because there’s a certain Faustian arrangement with that kind of success. While I was happy that Tom's career took off, I was also concerned that it could affect him in some difficult ways, too, and maybe that's what happened to him. I stayed close to him for a while and as he got more successful, he became harder to reach. Unrelenting adoration can really twist you in some strange ways. It’s crazy to think that one day I was sitting in a cabin thinking of these lines of dialogue, and a few years later, these young lives were profoundly changed.

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Tom cruise officially became a movie star 40 years ago today with 1 iconic scene & a $63m hit.

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Deep Star Wars Lore Hints At The Origin Of The First Lightsaber

James earl jones dies age 93, legendary actor behind darth vader & mufasa's voice, “the next wall-e”: 2024 animated sci-fi movie scores rave first reviews.

• Tom Cruise's breakout role in Risky Business helped him become a true movie star by showcasing his comedic talents and charm to a larger audience.
• Risky Business remains one of Cruise's best non-action movies, representing a period of cinema that was less serious and more willing to have fun.
• The iconic dance scene in Risky Business has become a pop culture moment and exemplifies Cruise's willingness to get goofy and have fun, which resonated with audiences and helped solidify his popularity.

Tom Cruise is frequently cited as one of Hollywood’s last remaining movie stars, with an extensive career that spans multiple decades and several successful projects within a variety of different genres. The actor first rose to fame in the 1980s with a series of teen comedies and action flicks that allowed him to easily build a name for himself and quickly climb the ranks of Hollywood before getting involved with more mainstream blockbusters in the ‘90s and ‘00s.

Cruise is known for his attempts to save Hollywood and keep the magic of filmmaking alive in the age of streaming and on-demand movies, which is a testament to just how involved he’s always been in the industry. Although he’s now known for his huge action franchises like Mission: Impossible and Top Gun , Cruise has also lent his talents to several smaller, independent movies in his younger years The actor was actually known as a comedy icon long before he was an action star, with one project in particular being responsible for propelling his career into stardom.

How Risky Business Helped Tom Cruise Become A True Movie Star

Cruise made his on-screen debut in 1981 with a romantic drama titled Endless Love , but it wasn’t until two years later that he finally got his big break and landed the main role in Paul Brickman’s Risky Business , a teen comedy that follows the sexual exploits of a high school senior when his parents go away on vacation. It was the project that really put Cruise’s name on the map for the first time, allowing him to flex his comedic talents and teenage charm to a much larger audience. The movie was a huge success upon release, grossing around $63 million across the world.

Risky Business is usually named as Cruise’s breakout role because it was the first of his projects to really achieve any success. Endless Love and Taps (his first two movies) were fairly well-liked, but their commercial performance was nowhere near as impressive as Risky Business ’. He’d also starred in Francis Ford Coppola’s The Outsiders , but his role was fairly small.

Why Tom Cruise’s Risky Business Dance Is Still One Of His Most Iconic Scenes

Risky Business remains one of Tom Cruise’s best non-action movies , representing a period of cinema’s history that took itself much less seriously and wasn’t afraid to have a laugh with its audience. The iconic dance scene is a great example of this, allowing Cruise to really let loose and enjoy himself without focusing too much on the story or plot. It’s a great moment that’s cemented itself within pop culture by almost existing outside of the narrative, enjoyable even without any knowledge of what Risky Business was about. It’s the willingness to have fun and get goofy that really made audiences fall in love with Tom Cruise in Risky Business .

• risky business

7 Reasons to Ride the “Real Train” Again: ‘Risky Business’ Turns 40

In celebration of the 40th anniversary, revisit the movie that made Tom Cruise a star.

About 40 years ago, most audiences probably didn’t recognize Tom Cruise by name. Although he had notched supporting roles in 1981’s Endless Love and Taps and 1983’s The Outsiders , his leading role in the ’83 sex comedy Losin’ It didn’t exactly set Hollywood aflame. (Although his co-star Shelley Long did later reveal to Rosie O’Donnell in 1996 what a great kisser he was.)

That all changed, however, after the August 5, 1983, release of Risky Business , the MTV-stylish sex-fueled dark comedy written and directed by Paul Brickman. The film told the tale of Joel Goodsen (Cruise), a tightly wound and tidily wealthy Chicago teenager who breaks out of his shell thanks to a series of escalating erotic adventures he falls into after meeting Lana (Rebecca De Mornay), a beautiful sex worker.

For the most part, audiences and critics applauded the film and fell in love with Cruise’s magnetic performance and persona as the all-American boy next door with a wild streak just waiting to break free. With a budget of $6.2 million, it made more than $63 million at the box office and put Cruise on the path to his superstar coronation in 1986’s Top Gun .

Although the film contains troubling elements to begin with — its problematic depiction of sex work, for example — it’s still a fascinating glimpse into a darker, sexier, more mysterious flip side of the multi-teenverse that John Hughes would later dominate. Let’s look at seven reasons to revisit this film.

1. The way it captures certain truths about being young

Above all, Risky Business is a fantasy — a teenage boy’s, to be exact — but its success largely builds on the fact that it’s rooted in a lot of truth. While most of us as teens never got into the glass egg-breaking and college recruiter-cursing high jinks Joel finds himself engaging in, we can all relate to the unique emotional-whiplash adolescent vibe the movie conjures so perfectly.

Relishing the suburban luxury in which he lives while simultaneously chafing against it, Joel frequently goes from bored to thrilled to horrified, and then back again, sometimes even in the same scene. Like all teens, he wants everything to be safe and predictable one second, then thrilling and scary in the next. Unlike most teens, however, he finds himself physically wrestling with his metaphorical adulthood in the form of his father’s Porsche as he tries to prevent it from rolling into the river.

One of the most effective scenes that highlights this duality is the famous one in which Joel, after escaping a misadventure with a sex worker his friend set in motion, retreats into the comfort of his childhood bed. Safety soon loses its appeal, though, as the night wears on. The neon sign in his bedroom flashes, and he feels the temptation of reaching out to the sexual unknown once more, which he does by calling Lana on the phone … but only after protecting himself further by putting on a catcher’s mask and giving her the fake name of Ralph.

Only at the end of the film, after going through both heaven and hell and paying both the emotional price of giving up his innocence and the financial price of buying back his family’s furniture from Guido (Joe Pantoliano), can Joel achieve a truly adult wisdom that not only puts him on the same equal footing as his father, but perhaps even a few steps beyond. It’s all a really moving and heavily art-directed allusion to growing up … if only all of us could come out of that journey even half as stylishly!

2. Bruce A. Young

While the film’s treatment of sex work overall definitely seems of its time and place, it is pleasantly surprising to see the way that the first sex worker introduced, Jackie (Young), is treated. After Joel’s friend makes an appointment for Joel over the phone by calling Jackie’s back-page ad, she arrives at Joel’s house. Other movies of the time might have leaned into the “comedy” that the sex worker who arrives at the young white man’s house to deflower him turns out to be either a Black man in drag or a Black trans woman — to the film’s credit, it’s never spelled out. Thankfully, Risky Business focuses instead on Joel’s naivete and (briefly) Jackie’s humanity.

Polite, firm, but ultimately kind, Jackie sizes up the situation and gracefully exits, but not without getting her money, and perhaps touched by Joel’s innocence, gives him Lana’s number. In his brief screen time, Young creates a character who feels alive, dignified, and well-rounded — definitely not the butt of anyone’s joke. In fact, Jackie’s perceptively cutting line that Lana is “what every white boy off the lake wants” — for better or for worse — inspired the film’s original title. (Good thing they changed it. It’s hard to imagine White Boys Off the Lake becoming a smash.)

3. Tom Cruise

And of course, there’s the main reason this movie was a hit in 1983 and is remembered in 2023 — its star, Tom Cruise. It’s hard to believe he was ever this young and gangly on-screen, seeing how he has presented a fully adult masculine physical ideal for so long now, but it’s really affecting seeing the actor before he truly became “Tom Cruise.” There’s a rawness and boyish vulnerability about him and his performance that help sell the character and the film, while also hinting at his darker, wilder side. It’s difficult to imagine anyone else striking that balance so perfectly.

4. Tom Cruise dancing

Arguably the moment that cemented Cruise’s stardom, this scene showcases Joel, home alone and brimming with untapped energy, letting off some steam by dancing in a pink shirt and white briefs to “Old Time Rock and Roll” by Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band. Even if you have never seen this movie, you know this scene. The scene is so iconic that it has been parodied endlessly , but the original direction in the script just said for the character to dance to rock music. Cruise’s over-the-top exuberance may have popped up again in the future, but never this charmingly — it’s the mark of a true star that a scene with no dialogue or real stage direction becomes a pop culture landmark.

5. Rebecca De Mornay

Although three years her junior, Cruise was a relative acting pro at the time compared to De Mornay, who was making only her second appearance in a film when she landed the female lead in Risky Business . In many ways too, the challenges she faced in the role were much greater than Cruise’s — Lana remains a tantalizing mystery even to the end of the film, all hard ambition and cool intelligence. Treated more like an unknowable force of nature who turns the film into a dreamlike erotic music video with her sensuality, Lana never gets the spotlight the way Joel does — while we get loving close-ups of countless childhood pictures of Joel in his home, for example, we only see one of Lana in hers.

And yet, De Mornay takes this tricky role and makes Lana someone audiences care and wonder about, even if we’re never quite sure if we (or Joel) should or can trust her. The fact that De Mornay struggled to find career-boosting follow-ups to this film for so long while Cruise shot into the stratosphere relatively quickly says a lot about the roles available to women versus those available to men in Hollywood, but it also says a lot about De Mornay’s and Cruise’s personas.

After all, it’s a lot harder to get all of America to sign on to your superstardom by playing enigmatic, icy sex goddesses than it is playing heroic hunks with a wicked twinkle in their eyes. Perhaps that’s why De Mornay was only able to level up later in her career by playing the alluringly evil nanny from hell in the smash 1992 thriller The Hand That Rocks the Cradle . (Definitely worth a rewatch itself!) Her work in Risky Business , however, is definitely worth a second look today.

6. The style of director/writer Paul Brickman

From the opening credits to the very end, everything about Risky Business oozes style, especially its camera that moves slowly and sensually, finding the surprising sexual undertones in everything from a gardening hose reaching toward a plant to the lowering of a catcher’s mask over Joel’s face when he’s first calling Lana.

When these scenes are shot with such panache, it’s no surprise that the more sexual scenes are practically MTV high art. The scene where Lana enters Joel’s home without him knowing, slinks to the window, and then seemingly causes the garden doors to open and a wind machine to billow curtains and fling leaves inside through the sheer force of her erotic might is a thing of art — this is what every virginal teenager dreams that the power of sex can do and should be.

Shockingly for a film helmed so masterfully, Risky Business was Paul Brickman’s directorial debut, although he had written two previous films. Even more shockingly, alas, Brickman would go on to direct only one other full-length feature, 1990’s Men Don’t Leave . He would tell Salon in 2013 that the success of the film, as well as the meddling of Hollywood executives who made him change the film’s ending from the bleaker one he preferred, caused him to turn his back on Hollywood and reject offers to direct everything from Rain Man to Forrest Gump .

7. Tangerine Dream

As great as the film’s soundtrack is overall, in particular the incredible sequence scored to everyone’s favorite air drumming call to action, “ In the Air Tonight ” by Phil Collins, it’s the music by electronic music legends Tangerine Dream that transforms this film into a masterpiece of nocturnal glamour.

Every track they contribute is atmospheric perfection, from Lana’s theme to the film’s most unlikely erotic set piece, the “ Love on a Real Train ” sequence. Although it’s left a mystery whether the mind-blowing public sex Joel experiences with Lana on said train is simply an expression of love or a tactic to distract him while Guido steals his furniture, maybe that ambiguity adds something a little extra to the mystique of it all.

In that same Salon interview, Brickman shares the fascinating story of how the collaboration with Tangerine Dream was perfected. After some initial pieces the band submitted were deemed too tritely “teenage rock,” Brickman and some colleagues flew to Berlin to spend time with the band and work through the entire score. “We were very fortunate because the guys in Tangerine Dream were great collaborators,” Brickman shared. “They had strange working hours. They owned and worked in an old church. We’d start work around dinnertime and work through the night every night.”

A great album to start your Tangerine Dream journey is 1974’s Phaedra , which creates an eerie ambience, but if you prefer your Tangerine Dream a little sexier, it’s worth checking out the full Risky Business soundtrack and film, of course.

Whatever your feelings about the movie, here’s hoping you’re able to revisit it, enjoy it, and say, “What the …” Well, you know the rest.

Jonathan Riggs is a freelance writer and former managing editor of the LGBTQ+ lifestyle magazine Instinct.

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40 Years On, You Should Still Be Dressing Like Tom Cruise in ‘Risky Business’

The actor's first role as Joel Goodson is prime sartorial inspo for the TikTok-approved 'old money aesthetic'

Before Tom Cruise became synonymous with piloting fighter jets, jumping across skyscrapers and breaking every bone in his body in the service of cinèma , the 61-year-old megastar made his name in a far less perilous project.

We're talking about his breakthrough role as college-bound teen Joel Goodson in the 1983 box office hit Risky Business, which turns 40 today. Seemingly guileless and a bit of a push-over, a week with an empty family home at his disposal sees Joel undergo some typical teenage experiences, like losing his virginity and taking midterms, as well as some very untypical teenage experiences. With barely a few days of independence behind him, it doesn't take long for the house to transform into a make-shift brothel that happens to piss off a gun-wielding pimp. It is a surprisingly smart film, a funny film, and – in our opinion, at least – the best-dressed film of Cruise's seasoned career.

No, we're not talking about the iconic dancing scene, where Joel is captured sliding about to Bob Seger’s Old Time Rock And Roll in a red-striped shirt, tighty whities and pulled-up socks – now a popular Halloween costume for those lacking in time and resources. As everyday style inspiration that won't land you in the back of a police car goes, we don't recommend it. And while the film's role in reviving Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses is well-documented (the Los Angeles Times reported that sales almost doubled upon release) that's not the be-all and end-all of its sartorial legacy, either.

You see, Joel may have been walked all over by Lana (Rebecca De Mornay) but the teenager had full authority on his signature preppy look, which can now be found under ‘old-money aesthetic’ hashtags on your TikTok feed.

In the scenes before Joel’s bare-legged musical performance, the teen is seen in an all-American varsity jacket layered over a shirt, while blue denim jeans ( Levi's , most likely) are paired with this year’s ‘it’ footwear: boat shoes . Later on in the film, jeans are cropped to tight, hot pant-esque jorts – styles on the snug side are being embraced on the feed – and the ever-popular Nike Cortez sneakers make several appearances. He's partial to a bit of formalwear, too, with a classic Donegal tweed blazer appearing throughout the film. Joel first dons it with a shirt and tie and later styles it with a black t-shirt and the famed Ray-Bans.

Nike Nike Cortez

Levi's 501 Original Fit

SID MASHBURN No. 3 Herringbone Wool-Tweed Blazer

Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Classic

It's a selection of preppy looks that feels very of its time, particularly in the more affluent enclaves of the American suburbs. The trend’s holy text, “The Official Preppy Handbook”, was published in 1980, and paired well with the conservative ideals of Reagan’s near decade-long reign. It was attire for a day on the yacht, or a day spent looking like you might own a yacht. Even for those who hardly cared for the era's cut-throat capitalist ideals – Joel asks his friends before his entrepreneurial downfall, “Doesn’t anyone want to accomplish anything, or do we just want to make money?” – the allure of high-net-worth dressing was too enticing to resist.

Even today, the aforementioned hashtag look is most popular with Gen Zs, despite headlines that suggest they're more liberal – and less flush with cash – than previous generations. And fashion has followed suit with a wardrobe for them; streetwear brands like Aimé Leon Dore and Noah are purveyors of it, while the old bastions – Ralph Lauren, J.Crew (revived thanks to Brendon Babenzien ) and Gant – are still doing what they do best. It can also be found on the spring/summer ’23 catwalks of Givenchy, Kenzo and Louis Vuitton. Even four decades later, Joel Goodson wouldn’t look out of place.

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Tom Cruise Signs Movie Deal With ‘Risky Business’ Film Studio: What It Means

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Tom Cruise just agreed to his new mission. And the seemingly ageless actor penned a pact with Warner Bros. Discovery that will result in new films, including franchise movies.

Find out what Cruise’s deal with the same studio who gave him his breakout role in “ Risky Business ” means. And keep reading to learn about the legendary actor’s upcoming movies.

Tom Cruise Inks Deal With Warner Bros Discovery

Call it a mission possible. Tom Cruise agreed to a new deal that will result in the actor developing and producing movies with Warner Bros. Discovery.

And the studio shared that the films will range from original productions to franchise creations, all starring Cruise, per Variety .

As a result of the new partnership, Cruise will move into offices with his production company on the Warner Bros. Discovery lot in Burbank. And it marks a success story for Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy after they became co-chairs and CEOs of Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group in 2022.

However, Cruise continues his projects at other studios, including Universal and Paramount. And the new deal doesn’t mark an exclusive or first-look agreement. But it does give Warner Bros. the chance to work with Tom on blockbusters that could expand into franchises, complete with money-generating sequels.

Tom Cruise Ranks As Film Legend 

Because 10 years have passed since Cruise last starred in Warner Bros.’ Edge Of Tomorrow, the deal stands as a significant win for the studio. Tom’s history with Warner Bros. includes “Magnolia,” “Rock of Ages,” “Interview With the Vampire” and “Eyes Wide Shut.” And the later resulted in Tom devoting a year to work with the legendary Stanley Kubrick.

However, Warner Bros. opened Hollywood’s doors for Cruise by giving him his very first breakout role. And the teen sex comedy Risky Business featured a very young Tom rocking out to Bob Seger in his underwear. Reflecting on Cruise’s career, the studio praised the actor as a legend.

“We are thrilled to be working with Tom, an absolute legend in the film industry,” gushed De Luca and Abdy. “Our vision, from day one, has been to rebuild this iconic studio to the heights of its glory days. And, in fact, when we first sat down with [Warner Bros. Discovery chief] David Zaslav to talk about joining the Warner Bros. Discovery team, he said to us, ‘We are on a mission to bring Warner Bros. back’.”

Tom Cruise Reflects On New Movie Deal

And De Luca and Abdy shared that Zaslav told them, “We need to bring Tom Cruise back to Warner Bros! Today, that becomes a reality,” the duo added. “And we are one step closer to achieving our ambition. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Tom back to Warner Bros. And [we] look forward to bringing more of his genius to life on screen in the years ahead.”

But Cruise took time to make a statement as well. And the actor shared his “great respect and admiration for David, Pam, Mike, and the entire team at Warner Bros. Discovery and their commitment to movies, movie fans, and the theatrical experience. I look forward to making great movies together!”

However, in the near future, Tom’s fans can see Cruise in movies from other studios. For instance, the actor stars in the eighth installment of the “Mission: Impossible” franchise for Paramount. And he also appears in an upcoming Universal action movie from “Edge of Tomorrow” director Doug Liman. That movie will feature the actor becoming “the first civilian to do a spacewalk” outside of the International Space Station.

Tell us what you think. Would you like to see Tom Cruise in a Risky Business remake? And after you share your views, check back on our site for more celebrity news.

Editorial credit: Fred Duval / Shutterstock.com

Since receiving my B.A. in English literature from UCLA, I have worked as a journalist for publications like the Hollywood Reporter and websites such as Yahoo. I specialize in writing about entertainment.

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What Businesses Does Tom Cruise Own? Actor to Mogul Business Ventures Unveiled

Tom Cruise isn’t just a powerhouse on the silver screen; he’s also a savvy businessman with an impressive portfolio. While he’s best known for his blockbuster hits, there’s more to Cruise than meets the eye.

From his production company to his stake in various entertainment ventures, Cruise has spread his wings far beyond the realm of acting. Let’s take a peek at the business side of this Hollywood icon and discover what enterprises he’s got his hands in.

Cruise/Wagner Productions

In the heart of Hollywood’s soaring skyscrapers and star-studded Walk of Fame, Cruise/Wagner Productions stands as a testament to Tom Cruise’s entrepreneurial prowess. Founded in 1993, the production company is a partnership between Tom Cruise and Paula Wagner, a former talent agent with an equally keen eye for cinematic hits. This dynamic duo has steered the company to remarkable achievements , producing several box-office successes that have ingratiated Cruise not just as an actor but as an influential producer.

The company’s filmography is impressive, boasting titles that have become synonymous with high-octane action and compelling narratives. Mission: Impossible —a franchise that redefined the spy genre—is perhaps the brightest jewel in their crown, grossing billions globally and cementing Cruise’s status as a producer who can deliver both critical acclaim and commercial success.

While action may be their bread and butter, Cruise/Wagner Productions hasn’t shied away from investing in an array of genres, demonstrating Tom Cruise’s ability to identify and produce films that resonate with a diverse audience. From the haunting psychological drama Vanilla Sky to the historical thriller Valkyrie , the company’s versatility is evident.

Cruise and Wagner have fostered strong connections within the industry, enabling them to attract some of the most celebrated directors and A-list actors to their projects. Their knack for creating collaborative environments has not only resulted in high-quality entertainment but has also nurtured enduring relationships in the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood.

As Cruise/Wagner Productions continues to establish its presence in the entertainment world, their ability to adapt and innovate remains key. With technology and audience preferences constantly changing, Tom Cruise’s business acumen keeps him ahead of the curve, ensuring that the company doesn’t just react to trends, but often sets them.

United Artists

Tom Cruise’s ambitions in the entertainment industry didn’t halt with the success of Cruise/Wagner Productions. In a move that showcased his deep understanding of the business, Cruise took a significant step by partnering with MGM in 2006 to resurrect the historic film studio United Artists. The legacy of United Artists, founded by cinema giants like Charlie Chaplin and Mary Pickford, was now in the hands of one of Hollywood’s most driven actors.

Under Tom’s leadership, United Artists aimed to give artists more control and a collaborative space to create unique and compelling content. He took the creative helm, determined to steer the studio back into prominence by producing films that resonate with both critics and audiences. “Lions for Lambs” , featuring heavyweights like Meryl Streep and Robert Redford, was among the first films created under the revitalized banner.

While Cruise’s tenure with United Artists was brief, it left an indelible mark on the studio’s approach to filmmaking and business strategy. Despite stepping down from his executive role within a few years, the period marked by Cruise’s involvement brought forth critical discussions about independence and innovation in Hollywood’s dynamic ecosystem. His foray into the storied studio is yet another testament to his versatility, not just as an actor but as a filmmaker with a keen eye for both art and commerce.

United Artists also provided Tom Cruise with an avenue to further imprint his vision onto the industry, reinforcing the notion that celebrities can deftly navigate the complexities of Hollywood’s corporate side. It wasn’t just about starring in blockbusters but about nurturing a more artist-friendly environment — one where the story and the storytellers are valued components of the cinematic experience.

Tom Cruise Aviation

In his continuing pursuit of personal and professional excellence, Tom Cruise also took to the skies literally. His passion for aviation is well-known among fans and industry insiders alike. Cruise, a licensed pilot, owns a P-51 Mustang , a historic World War II fighter aircraft. Aside from the Mustang, he’s also the proud owner of a Gulfstream IV , a jet known for its luxury and speed.

Cruise’s fascination with aviation isn’t just for play; it’s an extension of his persona . He often pilots himself to film sets and has been known to engage in aerobatic maneuvers, bringing a sense of adventure to his travels. The investment in these aircraft is not only a nod to his love for flying but also speaks to his approach to business: private, efficient, and with a penchant for control.

Tom Cruise’s aviation assets stand as a testament to his commitment to his craft. He doesn’t simply play a pilot on-screen; he embodies the thrill-seeking, barrier-breaking characters that have made him a household name.

• P-51 Mustang: a showpiece of aviation history and personal nostalgia.
• Gulfstream IV: reflects luxury, speed, and the heights of business travel.

Aircraft ownership, for Cruise, isn’t merely a means of transport. It’s a statement —about his dedication to the craft, the value of time-saving practices in business, and his personal brand that prizes freedom and a capacity for unique experiences.

Aviation isn’t just a part of Cruise’s life; it’s an integral thread in the fabric of his being , weaving together the domains of his film career, his business ventures, and his personal aspirations. Like his United Artists initiative, Tom Cruise Aviation is yet another example of how he charts his own course, in the air and in the competitive skies of Hollywood.

Church of Scientology

While Tom Cruise’s endeavors in the entertainment and aviation sectors are well-known, his involvement with the Church of Scientology is another facet of his multifaceted life. He’s not just a member of this controversial organization but one of its most prominent advocates. His connection with Scientology has sparked curiosity and debate, but it’s evident that Cruise’s commitment is deep-rooted and personal.

Scientology’s Principles and Beliefs shape its members’ perspectives, and Cruise has often credited the Church for his successes and personal growth. The actor’s investment in the Church is more than just financial; it’s an intertwining of his life’s philosophies with the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard, the Church’s founder.

Rumors have circulated that Cruise holds a significant position within the Church’s hierarchy, although these claims are often speculative. The Church’s tight-knit community values privacy, making it challenging to suss out the specifics of Cruise’s role. Regardless, his dedication to Scientology endures as a key aspect of his public persona.

The star’s association with Scientology extends beyond personal belief into the realm of business. There’s speculation that he has used his A-list status to champion Scientology-affiliated businesses. Influence and Networking within the Church could provide Cruise with unique business opportunities, though details on exact enterprises remain sparse due to the Church’s infamous secrecy.

Despite the Church’s contentious reputation, Cruise’s association with it has seemingly done little to dampen his career. In Hollywood, he’s as much a power player as ever, with the Church of Scientology accompanying him behind the scenes. It’s a testament to Cruise’s Teflon-like star power that his business interests continue to flourish amid the complexities of his spiritual affiliations.

Tom Cruise’s Real Estate Portfolio

Tom Cruise, a man known for his blockbuster smashes, also boasts a real estate portfolio as impressive as his filmography. They’ve often likened his collection of homes to the eclectic characters he’s portrayed—each property with a distinct personality and charm. Cruise’s investments span the map, signifying not just wealth but his penchant for privacy and excellence.

The Hollywood icon’s property holdings are nothing short of breathtaking. From the sprawling hills of Telluride, Colorado to the buzzing heart of New York City, Cruise’s choice in estates mirrors his adventurous spirit. His Telluride home, on the market for $39.5 million , is tucked away on over 298 acres of land, complete with a 10,000-square-foot main house that’s a monument to rustic luxury.

Down in sunny Florida, Cruise’s Clearwater apartment is strategically placed near the spiritual headquarters of the Church of Scientology. It’s reported that the building’s top floor, rumored to be his retreat, promises unobstructed views and a sanctuary from the paparazzi’s prying lenses.

Further west in Beverly Hills, the star’s former estate—a palatial spread once valued at around $30 million—vied for attention with the grandest of the golden state’s mansions. Although Cruise has since let go of this gem, the property bore witness to opulent parties and was a sterling example of extravagance.

While specifics about each property Cruise owns aren’t always public, it’s known that he has a knack for flipping his homes for a profit. Industry professionals speculate that beyond his star power, he possesses a shrewd sense of the real estate market. And with each strategic buy and sell, he cements his role not just as a leading man in films but as a savvy investor in the high-stakes world of real estate.

Tom Cruise’s business ventures are as varied and dynamic as his film career. From the skies to the silver screen and even into the realm of spirituality, he’s built an empire that mirrors his diverse interests and relentless drive. His properties aren’t just homes but investments that reflect his eye for excellence and privacy. Whether he’s in the cockpit of his P-51 Mustang or walking the halls of United Artists, Cruise’s entrepreneurial spirit is unmistakable. His deep ties with the Church of Scientology may stir up controversy, yet they’ve become an integral part of his identity. As Cruise continues to navigate the worlds of entertainment, aviation, and real estate, his ventures serve as a testament to his ambition and the breadth of his influence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tom cruise’s role with united artists.

Tom Cruise aims to empower artists by providing them with greater control over their projects, thereby fostering a platform for creating unique and innovative content within United Artists.

Does Tom Cruise own any aircraft?

Yes, Tom Cruise owns a vintage P-51 Mustang and a Gulfstream IV, reflecting his passion for aviation and his dedication to his personal interests and brand.

Is Tom Cruise involved with the Church of Scientology?

Tom Cruise is not only a member of the Church of Scientology but also one of its most prominent advocates, often crediting the Church for his professional successes and personal development.

What position does Tom Cruise hold in the Church of Scientology?

Cruise’s exact position within the Church of Scientology’s hierarchy remains undisclosed and is the subject of speculation due to the Church’s private nature.

Has Tom Cruise used his Church of Scientology connections in business?

While specific engagements are unverified, it is speculated that Tom Cruise has utilized his Church of Scientology network to support Scientology-affiliated businesses.

Has Cruise’s career been affected by his association with the Church of Scientology?

Despite the Church of Scientology’s controversial reputation, Tom Cruise’s career continues to prosper without any signs of being adversely impacted by his association with the Church.

Does Tom Cruise invest in real estate?

Tom Cruise possesses an extensive real estate portfolio, including properties in Telluride, New York City, Clearwater, and Beverly Hills, indicating his keen interest in real estate investment and his shrewdness in the market.

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Risky Business Sunglasses : What Sunglasses is Tom Cruise Wearing in Risky Business?

Risky Business, to me, is one of the all-time classic movies if you were born in the 80s and if you were born in the very early 90s, you must have seen it and considered a classic as well. One thing that defined Tom Cruise in that movie was the sunglasses he wore. They created hysteria around the Ray-Ban Wayfarers once again. When he put them on, he felt like a million bucks and set the look. Everyone wanted to own a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarers and still today, considered one of the most classic and iconic pair of sunglasses.

If you want a great pair of sunglasses that is classy and casual at the same time, the Ray-Ban Wayfarer , in black or tortoise is what you want. Check out the selection below to get the look as Tom Cruise in Risky Business.

Ray-Ban Black Classic Wayfarers RB2140 901:

About The Ray-Ban Wayfarer RB2140

The Ray-Ban Wayfarer RB2140 goes a step ahead and has literally turned into a bold style statement now. This specific model is extremely popular and owners love its design and overall look. Another feather in its cap is it has also tuned out to be one of the hottest selling products of Ray-Ban in the category of sunglasses.

The frames are light and these sunglasses are targeted towards both men and women. It is a must-have accessory for all who want to look stylish and is of the few models that will always remain in vogue. The Ray-Ban Wayfarer RB2140 comes with the characteristic Ray-Ban logo printed on the frames, at the temples. 

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Tom Cruise’s Risky Business Sunglasses are When Wayfarers Came Back

The Tom Cruise effect.

It’s hard to believe right now given how popular the brand is, but there was a time in the 70s and early 80s when Ray-Ban was struggling. Online publisher ApetoGentleman describes how during this time, over-the-top styles from high-fashion brands like Saint Laurent and Dior were popular, leaving Ray-Ban’s more timeless sunglasses behind.

In an attempt to turn the company’s fortunes around, Ray-Ban signed deals with movie production companies that would see them shades features in the top films of the time. One of the biggest successes of this campaign was Risky Business.

Risky Business Tom Cruise Sunglasses

In Risky Business, Tom Cruise wore black Ray-Ban Original Wayfarers . The oversized dark shades were a brilliant physical embodiment of the character’s confident yet rebellious nature and they shot the style of glasses to new levels of popularity. Four years after the movie was released the company was selling 1.5 million pairs of the shades every year.

At The Boardwalk, we are huge fans of the glasses. In fact, they were this writer’s first pair of proper sunglasses and one I go back to again and again. Ray-Ban Wayfarers have a classic design that still manages to appear modern and edgy, and has inspired many alternative frames . They are also a very solid pair of glasses.

Risky Business wasn’t Tom Cruises’ only flirtation with Ray-Bans. In Top Gun the star wore a pair of the brand’s aviators and had an equally, if not larger, affect on sales of the glasses. With a new Top Gun movie soon to be released, we just have to wait and see if he can repeat the trick for a third time.

If you’re ready to say “what the fuck” and make a move by grabbing yourself a pair of Ray-Ban Original Wayfarers , you can do so by clicking here to head to the Ray-Ban website or, here to check them out on Amazon.

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The Boardwalk is a menswear magazine and newsletter dedicated to helping you dress better. Our inclusive style advice, trend commentary, and buying guides inspire the style of over 40,000 monthly visitors.

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Hey, I'm Duncan Elder, the founder of The Boardwalk. I'm a menswear writer who has spent 15 years developing a sense of style that lies at the cross-section of mid-noughties indie and Uniqlo-inspired minimalism.

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Where to Buy Tom Cruise’s Risky Business Sunglasses

Actor Tom Cruise as Joel wears Ray-Ban RB2140 Original Wayfarer sunglasses in the 1983 comedy movie Risky Business.

If you choose to wear the Ray-Ban RB2140 Original Wayfarer sunglasses, you’ll become part of a classic style that’s celebrated across the world. These shades take you back in time when the classic Wayfarer was a trendy fashion accessory in the 1980s. In his first lead role in “Risky Business”, a 1983 American romantic comedy hit movie, Tom Cruise is spotted wearing the original Wayfarer in several scenes. Let’s take a look at the many benefits that come with these celebrity inspired sunglasses, and why you should consider adding them to your collection.

Classic Sunglasses Did we already mention that these shades are classic? Ray-Ban’s RB2140 Wayfarer shades are an updated version of the famous sunglasses that Tom Cruise wore in “Risky Business”. The newer shades feature slightly softer eye shapes and smaller tortoise shell frames. They also come with the Ray-Ban signature engraving on both sculpted temples.

Made with Durable and Lightweight Materials Ray-Ban makes it easy to find sunglasses that are both sturdy and comfortable with their RB2140 Wayfarers. These shades are made from fine quality acetate, which is a plastic material that is not only durable but also lightweight. The professionals at Ray-Ban use quality crystal glass to make the lenses for these shades. This means that you do not have to sacrifice comfort or durability when buying the new RB2140 Wayfarers.

Provides Protection against UV Rays When safe yet stylish eyewear is a priority, you can never go wrong with the Ray-Ban Wayfarers. These shades feature a 100% UV400 protection coating. The green tint lenses further enhances vision thanks to their G-15 light absorbing technology. As an added advantage, the Ray-Ban RB2140 sunglass frame is prescription-friendly.

Sunglasses Accessories Ray Ban provides the RB2140 Wayfarer sunglasses with a leather case and cleaning cloth. As a result, you don’t have to spend more to get these accessories separately. The case and lens cloth are all branded with Ray-Ban’s stylish signature logo for the fashion conscious.

Tom Cruise is also known for wearing Ray-Ban 3025 Aviator sunglasses in Top Gun and Ray-Ban 3016 Clubmaster sunglasses in Rain Man .

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Ray-Ban Wayfarer - Tom Cruise - Risky Business

Tom Cruise was partly responsible for the Ray-Ban revival in the 80s, because he sported a pair of black Wayfarer sunglasses in the 1983 movie Risky Business . The popular sunglasses can be seen in the movie as well as on the movie poster.

The modern Ray-Ban Wayfarer has the Ray-Ban logo on the sides and written on the lens, but the ones worn by Tom Cruise do not have the text "Ray-Ban" on the side of the temples or or on the lens, and instead have a similar chrome 'diamond' on the front as well as on the sides. See image on the left for a 'photoshopped' picture of vintage Wayfarers with that old design.

Reference: Ray-Ban Wayfarer, vintage, exact modelnumber unknown - Color: black

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